14 Things To See in Warsaw
Wondering what are the top things to see in Warsaw? This city will impress you with all it has to offer!
The Polish Capital is full of things to see and do, and it’s a great destination to visit no matter the season. From communist architecture, to a charming old city, amazing art galleries, and beautiful parks, you won’t get bored in this captivating destination. We’ve compiled a list of 14 Things to See in Warsaw so you don’t miss any of the top sights!
1. Barbican
What was once a defensive wall to protect Warsaw’s Old Town is now one of the most relevant landmarks in the city. This sixteenth century fortress sits at the border of the Old and New City, and often plays hosts to a variety of exhibitions. It’s truly hard to miss when visiting Warsaw’s Old Town!
2. Old Town & The Royal Route
The restored Centro storico is brimming with cafes, restaurants, and a great atmosphere. Full of Renaissance and Baroque style buildings, Market Square in the old town is our first pick for things to see in Warsaw!
Il Royal Route leads from Castle Square, all the way to Wilanow. By walking this route, you’ll also see the royal palaces, the „New World Street”, and Lazienki Park, which is full of peacocks, squirrels and has a Chopin monument.
3. Jewish Cemetery
Established in 1806, the Jewish Cemetery is a sombre but very interesting thing to do in Warsaw. With more than 150,000 tombstones throughout the grounds, it’s one of the largest in Europe. Inside the cemetery, you can find the graves of many prominent Polish Jews, as well as a the Monument to the Children of the Ghetto.
4. Communist Warsaw
What’s a list of things to see in Warsaw without mentioning communist architecture? Warsaw has been resurrected from the ashes quite a few times. As a result of Soviet occupation, the city is home to a fair amount of communist (Socialist Realism) style architecture. For a great example, check out the Palace of Culture and Science. It’s the tallest building in Poland, and now houses a cinema, theatres, some bars, and an observation deck!
For more examples of socialist realist architecture, check out the MDM quarter (Marszałkowska Housing District) in the city centre.
When hunger strikes, try out a milk bar diner! They were popular in Communist times, and many still exist all over the city. They’re loved for their cheap, home-style cooking, and unique atmosphere. We recommend Wegetariański Bar Mleczny Warszawa. If you’re looking for more food recommendations, check out our Warsaw Food Guide and our Warsaw Vegan Food Guide!
5. Wilanow Palace
There’s no denying the palaces and castles of Poland are gorgeous and ornately decorated, so if this is your thing, then don’t miss out on Wilanow Palace. From 1674-1696 it served as the summer residence for the Polish Royal Family, and is a stunning example of Polish Baroque architecture. And unlike much of Europe’s landmarks, it was spared from destruction during WWII, so what you see is essentially the original!
6. Parks & Green Areas
Warsaw has gardens, forests and over 70 parks for you to explore! We recommend Royal Park Lazienki for an urban retreat. Another top favourite includes the Multimedia Fountain Park. Opened in 2011, this beautiful garden has various coloured fountains, all providing great views of the park. But it doesn’t stop there. The fountains also play music in sync with the water fountain activity. It’s truly a sight to see! Located in the Podzamcze district and a short walk north of the Old Town, it’s one of the coolest parks in Warsaw.
In summer, take a blanket and listen to the live, open air Chopin music concerts. Kampinoski National Park is an urban escape with dunes, elks and even bison. You can get there by tram. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Warsaw!
7. Uprising Museum & Chopin Museum
To learn all about the history of Warsaw, including the numerous rebuilds, you must visit the Museo della Rivolta Varsavia. The interactive exhibitions are quite educational, now matter how much prior knowledge you have!
Warsaw’s most famous person is the music composer, Frederic Chopin. Whether you’re a professional musician or an amateur, you’ll enjoy the Chopin Museum. Play the piano, and listen to the stories about Chopin!
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8. Statue of the Little Insurgent
Unveiled on October 1, 1983, this bronze statue stands to commemorate all the children who lost their lives during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944. You can find it near the Barbican, and even to this day flowers and candles are left at its foot.
9. Skyline
The city has an amazing skyline, so naturally it makes our list for top things to see in Warsaw! And lucky for you, there’s tons of places to see it from! Here are our top 4 recommendations:
- St. Anne’s Church
- Warsaw University Library rooftop garden
- Museum of Warsaw
- Palace of Culture & Science
10. Bars & Club
Like to party? Warsaw is ready to party with you! No matter what kind of night you’re after, the city really has a scene for everyone. Our favourites include:
- The Pavilions: this is a cool courtyard with several cheap bars
- Enklawa: a classic kitschy, glitzy, disco
- Luzztro: an incredible rave spot
- Cafe Kulturalna: a great spot in the Palace of Culture and Science
- Warszawa Powisle: known for its great atmosphere, and outside deck chair seating
11. Praga District
The Praga district offers tons of bars, cafes, street art, galleries, alternative clubs, industrial buildings and old chapels. It ‘s also known for it’s river front sandy beaches with bars and BBQ spots. It’s one of our favourite mentions on things to see in Warsaw. Other notable spots include:
- Rozycki Market
- Metropolitan Orthodox Church
- Old vodka factory Koneser (converted into a cultural and party centre)
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12. Shopping
Warsaw is great for shopping. Zlote Tarasy Shopping Centre is next to the main train station, but there are many others around the city. For those who are into more sustainable fashion and like finding treasures in vintage clothing shops, Warsaw has also got you covered! And if you’re interested in flea markets, you’re in luck as Warsaw is one of the best locations for second hand shopping in Europe.
13. Seasonal Attractions
The city has tons of seasonal attractions for you! In winter, there’s a makeshift ski slope called Górka Szczęśliwicka, where you can ski, snowboard, or go sledding! The Old Town square also has an outdoor skating rink where you can practice your ice dance moves.
In summer, you can BBQ or play volleyball at the beach in Praga. Renting a bike to see the city is also a great activity! If you have strong arms try the rope parks for climbing.
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14. Day Trips
Warsaw is well situated for lots of day trips! Here are our top 3 suggestions, all easily accessible by bus or train:
- Kazimierz Dolny – a beautiful renaissance town with a magical atmosphere
- Zelazowa Wola – the birthplace of Frederic Chopin
- Modlin Fortress – a Napoleonic defence fortress, later used by the Poles, French, German, and Russians
Where to Stay in Warsaw
Book Oki Doki City Hostel, the most famous designer accommodation in Warsaw. Complete with a bar, and weekly activities, it’s sure to meet all your needs. Come as a guest, but leave as a friend!
14 Things To See in Warsaw
Warsaw will leave you astounded no matter how much time you spend in this cosmopolitan city. We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to the top 14 Things to See in Warsaw, and discover what makes this city such a hot destination for travellers.
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